Getting around: on-property and island transfers
Amara Cay Resort is reached via the property’s guest boat services (the Rum Runner water taxi between sister resorts) and on-site shuttles; the resort also provides on-site options to get around the property such as pool, beach, and dock access. For off-property airport transfers or mainland connections, arrange a separate ground or shuttle service in advance.
In this guide
Getting to the resort
Amara Cay Resort is an oceanfront property at 80001 Overseas Hwy (Mile Marker 80) in Islamorada. Guests can reach the property using the resort’s water and shuttle connections or by arranging a private transfer — the resort does not run a dedicated airport shuttle.
If you need ride arrangements from the nearest airports, contact the front desk or use a local shuttle service; BookResorts agents (24/7) can also assist at +1 (888) 605-1350.
- Resort does not list an airport shuttle — use Keys Shuttle or a private transfer service for airport connections.
- Confirm pick-up points with your transfer provider; the resort's front desk can advise on local meeting locations.
- Bring the primary guest’s photo ID and the card used for incidentals to speed check-in.
| Nearest airport / option | Notes |
|---|---|
| Marathon (MTH) | Commonly used regional option; arrange ground transfer to the resort |
| Miami International (MIA) | Major airport — many visitors fly in here and transfer by road/shuttle |
| Key West (EYW) | Alternative airport option; confirm transfer times and routes |
On-property shuttles and Rum Runner water taxi
Amara Cay Resort participates in the Islamorada Resort Collection guest transport network: a complimentary shuttle service and the Rum Runner water taxi link Amara Cay with sister properties (La Siesta Resort & Villas and Three Waters Resort & Marina).
Shuttle hours are published as running roughly from early morning into the late evening; the Rum Runner water taxi is a daily guest service that lets you move between resort properties to use their restaurants and amenities.
- Complimentary shuttle: services within the local mile-marker area and between collection properties.
- Rum Runner water taxi: guest-only water taxi connecting Amara Cay with sister resorts and dining at those properties.
- Shuttle/water-taxi schedules may vary — confirm times at the 24-hour front desk on arrival.
| Service | Who can use it |
|---|---|
| Complimentary shuttle | Guests of Islamorada Resort Collection properties |
| Rum Runner water taxi | Guests (daily service between sister resorts) |
| Local shuttles | Included with resort fee for on-property and nearby connections |
Getting around the property
Amara Cay Resort’s public areas are compact and walkable: lobby, ReelCatch restaurant, the zero-entry pool, Tiki Bar, Lighthouse Beach, and event lawns are all on the property and connected by paths and short walks.
The resort provides elevators to guest floors and accessible routes; luggage storage and a 24-hour front desk are available if you need help with bags or mobility assistance.
- Zero-entry pool hours: 8:00 AM to sunset.
- Lighthouse Beach is an elevated sunning beach with a stairway for snorkeling access rather than a traditional sand swimming beach.
- Coastal Cup & Lounge and ReelCatch are steps from the lobby and pool areas.
| On-site spot | How to reach it |
|---|---|
| Pool / Tiki Bar | Short walk from most guest rooms; poolside seating available |
| Lighthouse Beach / private beach | Walkable paths; stairway down for snorkeling access |
| ReelCatch / Coastal Cup & Lounge | Located adjacent to lobby and outdoor seating areas |
Water activities and dock access
The resort includes direct water access for kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and scuba diving; a stairway from Lighthouse Beach provides entry for snorkelers rather than a traditional swim beach.
If you plan boat excursions or private charters (fishing, eco-tours, or island visits), the resort can advise local operators and nearby marinas; Bud n' Mary's Dive Center is a short local access point for dive and fishing services.
- On-site gear: kayaks and paddleboards are included with the resort fee for guest use.
- Snorkel access: stairway from the elevated beach to the reef area.
- Charters and dive trips: book through the front desk or local vendors; check weather and tide conditions before heading out.
| Activity | Access |
|---|---|
| Kayaking / paddleboarding | Included with resort fee; launch from hotel beach area |
| Snorkeling / scuba | Stairway to water from Lighthouse Beach; dive trips arranged locally |
| Fishing charters | Book through front desk or nearby marinas |
Accessing nearby islands and attractions
Many nearby Keys attractions and islands are best reached by boat or by arranged ground transfers. Indian Key Historic State Park and Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park are accessible by boat tours and eco-excursions that the resort can help arrange.
The resort’s shuttle and Rum Runner water taxi cover connections within the Islamorada Resort Collection; for trips beyond the immediate area, request assistance at the front desk to book a private boat charter or land transfer.
- Indian Key Historic State Park: commonly reached by boat tours or private watercraft.
- Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park: typically visited on guided eco-boat tours.
- Theater of the Sea and other marine attractions: available through local excursion operators.
| Attraction | Typical access |
|---|---|
| Indian Key Historic State Park | Boat (tour or private charter) |
| Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park | Guided eco-boat tour |
| Theater of the Sea | Booked excursion or arranged transport |
Practical tips for transfers and luggage
Amara Cay is a cashless resort; have a credit or debit card ready for incidental holds at check-in. The cardholder must be present for authorization. The resort requires the primary guest to be at least 21 with a valid photo ID at check-in.
If you have a lot of luggage or mobility needs, notify the front desk before arrival so staff can arrange assistance. Confirm any shuttle or Rum Runner pickup times the day before travel to avoid delays.
- Card authorization: the resort places an incidental hold at check-in ($100 per night up to $300).
- Confirm shuttle/water taxi hours with the front desk; schedules can change seasonally.
- If traveling with pets, review the pet policy — dogs are allowed (up to two per room) with fees and restrictions.
| Item | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Large luggage | Ask front desk for assistance ahead of arrival |
| Airport pickup | Book a private shuttle or Keys Shuttle; confirm meeting point |
| Transfers to sister resorts | Use the complimentary Rum Runner water taxi or shuttle |
